Style note: Numbers in technical, scientific, and business writing

In technical, scientific, and business writing, numerals are preferred to words. When quantities are stated, particularly with units of measure, all values are expressed as figures.

When several numbers appear in the same passage, many writers choose consistency rather than strict adherence to the rule. Consider what will make most sense and cause the least confusion to your readers.

When in doubt about how to treat numbers, check with your instructor or consult the style guide for the discipline in which you are writing.